It is well known that the body needs some salt; it is important for nerve and muscle function, and it helps regulate bodily fluids. However, numerous studies have indicated that consuming too much salt can increase the risk of serious health problems, particularly when it comes to cardiovascular health, with research linking high salt intake to hypertension, stroke, and heart disease.

Dietary guidelines recommend that adults consume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day — the equivalent to around 1 teaspoon of salt — as part of a healthy diet. However, a recent report from the US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), found that around 90 percent of adults and children in the United States consume more than the recommended sodium intake, with most adults consuming more than 3,400 milligrams daily. Processed foods account for around 75 percent of this increased sodium intake.

Here is a list of some common foods and the salt content they have:

A single slice of bread contains anywhere from 80-230 milligrams of sodium
Some breakfast cereals can contain up to 300 milligrams of sodium before milk is added
One slice of frozen pizza can contain 370-730 milligrams of sodium.